A spokesperson for Rep. Gary Palmer (AL-6) confirmed to Yellowhammer News on Friday that the congressman from Birmingham is running to be chair of the Republican Policy Committee (RPC), a key leadership position in the United States House of Representatives.

If Palmer wins this leadership position, it remains to be seen how his likelihood to run for the United States Senate in 2020 would be affected (you can read Yellowhammer News’ preview of that race here).

The RPC, which was established in 1949, serves as the main advisory committee on conservative policies to House Republicans and provides a forum for Republican representatives to discuss legislative proposals before the chamber.

If Palmer wins election as chairman of the RPC, he would be the fifth highest ranking Republican in the House.

Roll Call reported earlier on Friday that Rep. David Schweikert (AZ-6), who, like Palmer is a member of the House Freedom Caucus, may also challenge for the chairmanship. The election will be held amongst Republican House members on Wednesday.

Sean Ross is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn